Iowa Administrative Code Agency 21 - Agriculture and Land Stewardship Department
What is Agency 21 – Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship?
Agency 21 in the Iowa Administrative Code refers to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS). This state agency is responsible for overseeing agriculture, managing natural resources, and promoting land stewardship in Iowa.
The Department’s work touches on farming, food safety, environmental protection, animal health, pesticide regulation, and more.
Purpose of the Rules in Agency 21
The rules adopted under Agency 21 guide how the Department administers its programs and enforces standards that protect:
Farmers and agricultural producers
Consumers and the food supply
The environment and natural resources
Livestock and plant health
These rules are legally binding and ensure compliance with Iowa’s agricultural policies and goals.
Main Areas Covered by Agency 21 Rules
1. Agricultural Production and Marketing
Rules regulating how agricultural products are grown, handled, marketed, and sold.
May include rules on certification, labeling, and grading of products.
Oversight of fair trading practices in agriculture.
2. Animal Health and Welfare
Standards for the care and treatment of livestock and poultry.
Regulation of animal diseases to prevent outbreaks.
Licensing and inspection of livestock dealers, pet shops, and animal shelters.
3. Pesticide and Fertilizer Regulation
Rules governing the use, application, sale, and storage of pesticides and fertilizers.
Certification and training requirements for pesticide applicators.
Restrictions to protect the environment and public health from misuse.
4. Soil and Water Conservation
Programs to promote sustainable land use and prevent soil erosion.
Rules for implementing conservation practices on farms and public lands.
Oversight of water quality standards related to agriculture runoff.
5. Food Safety and Inspection
Regulation of meat processing plants, dairy facilities, and food distributors.
Inspections to ensure food products are safe and properly handled.
Licensing and certification of food-related businesses.
6. Weights and Measures
Ensures accuracy in commercial transactions involving weights and measurements (e.g., scales, fuel pumps).
Licensing and inspecting measuring devices used in commerce.
7. Licensing and Certification
Establishes requirements for licensing farmers, dealers, processors, pesticide applicators, and others.
Ensures that individuals and businesses meet professional standards.
8. Enforcement and Penalties
Procedures for investigating violations of agricultural rules.
Administrative actions like fines, suspensions, or license revocations.
Processes for appeals and hearings when disputes arise.
Why These Rules Are Important
They protect the integrity of Iowa agriculture and the environment.
Ensure public health and safety related to food and pesticide use.
Promote fairness and transparency in agricultural business dealings.
Support sustainable practices for soil and water conservation.
Help the Department enforce its mission to serve Iowa’s farmers and citizens responsibly.
Summary
Agency 21 is the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship within the Iowa Administrative Code.
Its rules regulate farming practices, animal health, pesticide use, food safety, conservation, and commerce-related measures.
These rules ensure safe, fair, and sustainable agricultural practices and protect public and environmental health.
RELATED Blog
0 comments